Deputy Mayor Pam McConnell (Ward 28 Toronto Centre-Rosedale), a long-time member of Toronto City Council, passed away earlier today at the age of 71.

"It is with a heavy heart that I extend deepest condolences on behalf of Toronto City Council to Pam's husband Jim, their daughters Heather Ann and Madelyn, grandchildren and all members of her family," said Mayor John Tory. "Pam was a wonderful advocate for Toronto's most vulnerable residents. She spent much of her career advocating for social justice, education and literacy and poverty reduction. I respected the empathy, passion and common sense she brought to her role. She will be missed immensely but her work has ensured that this city is a stronger and fairer place."

Deputy Mayor McConnell was a school teacher before becoming a school trustee in 1982. In 1994, she became a City councillor and spent countless hours working with residents and groups to build healthy communities for all Torontonians.

This present term marked Deputy Mayor McConnell's seventh at Council. She served as Deputy Mayor, South and was selected by Mayor Tory in 2015 as the champion of the City's Poverty Reduction Strategy. She also served as a member of the Government Management Committee, the Affordable Housing Committee, and the Toronto and East York Community Council as well as several other boards, committees and Business Improvement Areas.

Flags at City Hall, Metro Hall and the Toronto civic centres will be lowered to half-mast in Deputy Mayor McConnell's honour. They will remain lowered until the end of the day of her funeral. Books of condolence will be available at Toronto City Hall beginning tomorrow for staff and members of the public to express their condolences. An online book of condolence will also be available at http://cityoftorontocondolences.ca beginning tomorrow.

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